Indian classical dance
Indian classical dance traditions rooted in the Natya Shastra.
Indian classical dance, or Shastriya Nritya, is an umbrella term for regionally specific Indian classical dance traditions rooted in predominantly Hindu musical theatre performance. The theory and practice of these traditions can be traced to the Sanskrit text Natya Shastra, attributed to the ancient scholar Bharata Muni. The number of recognized styles ranges from six to eight to twelve or more, depending on the source; the Sangeet Natak Academy recognizes eight: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Kathakali, Sattriya, Manipuri, and Mohiniyattam, while the Indian Ministry of Culture adds Chhau and Gaudiya Nritya for ten total styles. These dances are performed as expressive drama-dance forms, often with spiritual themes, and are associated with specific states or regions of India.
- field
- Performing arts
- nationality
- Indian
- known_for
- Classical dance traditions based on the Natya Shastra
- recognized_styles
- 8 (Sangeet Natak Academy) to 10 (Ministry of Culture) or more
- foundational_text
- Natya Shastra (attributed to Bharata Muni)
Lore & Background
It presents dance and performance arts as a form of expression of spiritual ideas and the essence of scriptures. The text mentions four Pravrittis (traditions) of ancient dance-drama: Avanti, Dakshinatya, Panchali, and Odra-Magadhi. Other ancient and medieval texts, such as the Abhinaya Darpana and Abhinava Bharati, further expand on the classical repertoire.
Reader's Guide
Indian classical dance encompasses multiple styles, each originating from a different state or region, such as Bharatanatyam from Tamil Nadu, Odissi from Odisha, and Manipuri from Manipur. The Sangeet Natak Academy recognizes eight classical forms, while the Ministry of Culture includes ten. Scholars like Drid Williams add Chhau, Yakshagana, and Bhagavata Mela. The ancient Meitei dance forms Lai Haraoba and Khamba Thoibi are also considered classical. Performances include three categories: Nritta (abstract, rhythmic movement), Nritya (expressive storytelling), and Natya (play). Dancers wear traditional costumes, often with ornate jewelry and ankle bells (ghungroos), and perform to music in languages such as Hindi, Sanskrit, Tamil, and Odia. The tradition represents a unity of core ideas and a diversity of styles, costumes, and expression.
Did You Know?
- The Natya Shastra is attributed to the ancient scholar Bharata Muni and its first complete compilation is dated between 200 BCE and 200 CE.
- The Sangeet Natak Academy recognizes eight classical dance styles: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Kathakali, Sattriya, Manipuri, and Mohiniyattam.
- Kathak can be performed in courtyards of mosques and includes Muslim elements, while Manipuri and Chhau have combat-related genres.
- The ancient Meitei dance forms Lai Haraoba and Khamba Thoibi are considered classical alongside the Vaishnav Manipuri Raas Leela.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Indian classical dance?
Indian classical dance, also called Shastriya Nritya, is an umbrella term covering several regionally distinct Indian dance traditions that grow out of Hindu musical-theatre performance. These forms share a common theoretical foundation drawn from ancient Sanskrit texts.
How many recognized styles of Indian classical dance are there?
The count varies by authority: the Sangeet Natak Academy officially recognizes eight styles, while the Indian Ministry of Culture lists ten or more. The eight most commonly cited are Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Kathakali, Sattriya, Manipuri, and Mohiniyattam.
What foundational text underpins Indian classical dance?
The Natya Shastra, a Sanskrit treatise on performing arts, serves as the theoretical bedrock for these dance traditions. It is traditionally attributed to the ancient scholar Bharata Muni.
Who is Bharata Muni in relation to Indian classical dance?
Bharata Muni is the ancient scholar credited with authoring the Natya Shastra, the text that codified the principles of Indian theatrical and dance performance. His work remains the reference point from which classical styles derive their theoretical framework.
Why is Indian classical dance considered important in Indian culture?
It represents a living performing-arts tradition whose roots stretch back to ancient Sanskrit scholarship, making it one of the oldest continuously practiced dance lineages in the world. Each recognized style carries its own regional identity while sharing a common philosophical and musical heritage.
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